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Black-Eyed Peas Curry Recipe

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Black-Eyed Peas Curry Recipe (Lobia Curry) – Easy, Flavorful & Protein-Rich Indian Style

Looking for a healthy, comforting, and protein-packed Indian curry? This Black-Eyed Peas Curry Recipe, popularly known as Lobia Curry in India, is a wholesome dish made with tender black-eyed peas simmered in a spiced onion-tomato gravy. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, and even festive vegetarian spreads.

Rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, this curry pairs beautifully with steamed rice, jeera rice, or roti.

⭐ What is Black-Eyed Peas Curry?

Black-eyed peas curry is a North Indian–style gravy dish made using soaked and cooked black-eyed beans (lobia), aromatic spices, tomatoes, onions, and herbs. The dish has a mildly spicy, earthy, and comforting flavor profile.

It is:

  • 100% vegetarian
  • Vegan-friendly
  • Gluten-free
  • High in protein & fiber
  • Budget-friendly

🥘 Ingredients for Black-Eyed Peas Curry

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dried black-eyed peas (lobia)
  • 2 medium onions (finely chopped)
  • 2 tomatoes (pureed)
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 2 cups water (for pressure cooking)
  • Salt to taste

Whole Spices:

  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds

Ground Spices:

  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • ½ tsp garam masala
  • ½ tsp cumin powder

Garnish:

  • Fresh coriander leaves
  • ½ tsp lemon juice (optional)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Black-Eyed Peas Curry Recipe

Step 1: Soak the Black-Eyed Peas

Wash and soak the black-eyed peas in water for 6–8 hours or overnight.

Step 2: Pressure Cook

Drain the soaked peas and pressure cook with 2 cups water and a pinch of salt for 3–4 whistles until soft but not mushy.

Step 3: Prepare the Masala

  1. Heat oil in a pan.
  2. Add cumin seeds and bay leaf.
  3. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  4. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until raw smell disappears.
  5. Add tomato puree and cook until oil separates.

Step 4: Add Spices

Mix turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook for 2 minutes.

Step 5: Combine & Simmer

Add cooked black-eyed peas along with the cooking water. Simmer for 10–15 minutes on medium flame.

Step 6: Final Touch

Sprinkle garam masala and fresh coriander. Add lemon juice if desired.

Serve hot!

🍚 Serving Suggestions

Black-Eyed Peas Curry tastes best with:

  • Steamed basmati rice
  • Jeera rice
  • Chapati or phulka
  • Paratha

For a complete Indian thali, serve with salad, pickle, and yogurt.

🥗 Nutritional Benefits of Black-Eyed Peas

Black-eyed peas are:

✔ Rich in plant-based protein
✔ High in dietary fiber
✔ Good source of iron
✔ Low in fat
✔ Great for weight management

This curry is ideal for vegetarians and vegans looking to boost protein intake naturally.

🔥 Tips for the Perfect Lobia Curry

  • Soak beans properly for softer texture.
  • Add a pinch of hing (asafoetida) for better digestion.
  • Use freshly ground spices for deeper flavor.
  • For creamy texture, mash a few beans while simmering.
  • Add coconut milk for a South Indian twist.

🌱 Instant Pot Method

  1. Turn on sauté mode and prepare masala.
  2. Add soaked beans and 2 cups water.
  3. Pressure cook for 12–15 minutes.
  4. Let pressure release naturally.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Black-Eyed Peas Curry without soaking?

Yes, but soaking reduces cooking time and improves digestion.

2. Is Black-Eyed Peas Curry healthy?

Absolutely! It’s high in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.

3. Can I freeze Lobia Curry?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months in airtight containers.

4. Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, it’s completely plant-based and dairy-free.

5. How do I thicken the curry?

Mash a few beans or simmer longer to reduce excess liquid.

📌 Variations You Can Try

  • Add spinach for extra nutrition
  • Make it Punjabi-style with extra garam masala
  • Add potatoes for a heartier meal
  • Make it coconut-based for a South Indian flavor

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